Omega-3 world map: 2024 update.
Level 3 - non-randomized controlled study
Systematic review and mapping synthesis of observational cohorts and baseline clinical trial data
PubMed 38879135 · doi:10.1016/j.plipres.2024.101286
What was done
The authors conducted a systematic update of the 2016 worldwide omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid status map using the Omega-3 Index (O3I: EPA + DHA percentage in red blood cell membrane fatty acids). Eligible studies reported blood EPA + DHA levels in samples drawn after 1999 from baseline clinical trials and observational studies. Non-RBC fatty acid measurements were converted into estimated O3I values using newly developed equations. The search identified 328 studies encompassing 342,864 subjects across 48 countries or regions, categorizing weighted country means into very low (≤4%), low (>4–6%), moderate (>6–8%), and desirable (>8%).
What was found
The O3I in most countries fell into the low or very low categories. Relative to the 2016 map, USA, Canada, Italy, Turkey, UK, Ireland, and Greece moved from very low (≤4%) to low (>4–6%); France, Spain, and New Zealand moved from low to moderate (>6–8%); and Finland and Iceland moved from moderate to desirable (>8%). Iran, Egypt, and India demonstrated particularly poor O3I levels. Precise numerical point estimates per country were not provided in the abstract.
Why it matters
This global surveillance map indicates that despite minor improvements in several Western nations, the vast majority of evaluated populations remain below cardioprotective omega-3 target thresholds.
Limits
The analysis relied on mathematical conversion formulas rather than direct, standardized red blood cell O3I assays across all studies. Aggregating baseline clinical trial participants and convenience cohorts introduces selection bias that may not accurately represent general national populations, and data were unavailable for most countries worldwide.
Cited by
- supports Globally, about 80% of the population does not get enough omega-3 from their diet.